Massachusetts online sports betting can start counting down the days to launch. At the most recent Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) meeting, MGC Executive Director Karen Wells said the group is targeting a March 10 launch for online sports betting.
Wells said betting would begin at 10 am to allow for bettors to place wagers in advance of that evening’s sporting events. March 12 is Selection Sunday for the NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship tournament, then the First Four tips off on Tuesday, March 14.
Wells did warn there is a lot of work to do before that date, which is a tentative one. If all apps are approved before that date, then ten will likely launch that day. The state approved 11 apps, but Betway already warned the MGC they would not be ready in time for launch.
A 12th app could be on the way, as Wells told commissioners to be prepared to hold another entity qualifier meeting for Raynham Park. The racetrack had previously partnered with bet365, but the deal ultimately fell apart.
Wells also updated the commissioners on how the retail launch has gone so far. There were two self-reported incidents of operators mistakenly having live markets on Merrimack and Boston College sporting events. Massachusetts has a ban on in-state college betting.
Both operators introduced plans to review markets locally from their platform providers and ensure this does not happen again.
